Buyer Initiated Invoicing in Kenya: eTIMS Guide
Short answer: Buyer initiated invoicing is where a buyer creates an eTIMS invoice on behalf of a qualifying small supplier, then the seller consents through USSD or eCitizen. KRA describes this for supplies from small business enterprises whose annual turnover does not exceed KES 5 million.
When Buyer Initiated Invoicing Applies
This workflow exists because some small suppliers may not issue their own eTIMS invoices. Instead of losing the expense record, the buyer can raise the invoice on the seller's behalf through the KRA-supported flow, then the seller gives consent.
It is not a replacement for normal supplier invoicing. If the supplier already issues eTIMS invoices through Risiti, KRA eTIMS Lite, or another approved solution, the supplier should issue the invoice directly.
Information the Buyer Captures
Seller identification details
Seller name and mobile number
Description of goods or services supplied
Unit price, quantity, and total invoice amount
Buyer details for the expense record
Seller consent through USSD or eCitizen
Buyer Initiated vs Supplier Issued
| Workflow | Who creates it | When to use |
|---|---|---|
| Supplier issued | Seller | Normal sales where supplier has eTIMS setup |
| Buyer initiated | Buyer, with seller consent | Qualifying small supplier who does not issue the invoice directly |
Why Suppliers Should Still Issue Their Own Invoices
If you sell repeatedly to businesses, issuing your own eTIMS invoices is cleaner. It gives you control over buyer details, invoice timing, customer records, and proof of submission. Risiti is designed for this supplier-issued flow so small businesses can avoid relying on buyers to raise invoices for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is buyer initiated invoicing in Kenya?
Buyer initiated invoicing is a KRA eTIMS workflow where a buyer issues an invoice on behalf of a qualifying small supplier, with seller consent through eCitizen or USSD.
Who qualifies for buyer initiated invoicing?
KRA describes the workflow for supplies received from a small business enterprise whose annual turnover does not exceed KES 5 million.
Is buyer initiated invoicing the same as a supplier eTIMS invoice?
No. A normal supplier eTIMS invoice is issued by the seller. Buyer initiated invoicing is used when the buyer raises the invoice on behalf of a qualifying seller and the seller consents.